Effectiveness of Positive Psychotherapy on Depression and Alexithymia in Women Applying for a Divorce

Table 1

Summary of positive psychotherapy.

Number	Topic	Objectives and summary of meetings
Session 1	Introduction—the concept of positivity-initial evaluation	We begin with a general discussion about the meaning and concept of positive thinking, explaining the purpose of the sessions and how they will run. Participants receive a brief explanation of positivity, coping styles, and related theories.
Session 2	Happiness skills and social skills	After reviewing the previous session’s assignments on strength identification, we discuss the concept of happiness and techniques to enhance its; (i) Healthy diet and exercise; (ii) Changing attitudes and lifestyles; (iii) Developing altruistic behavior and social relations; (iv) Keeping a journal of positive memories (e.g., writing about three good things that happen every day); We end the session by discussing social relationships, obstacles to their development, and techniques for enhancing them.
Session 3	The forgiveness process model	We first review the previous session’s assignments on the concept of happiness and then discuss forgiveness, and then, the participants write a sample letter of forgiveness. Instructors give the participants advice on how to improve their letters.
Session 4	Gratitude-optimism	We review the previous topic and introduce the concept of gratitude, its benefits, and methods of expressing it. Participants write a gratitude letter and then discuss the concept and benefits of optimism. Instructors demonstrate how to improve the letters and then present the ABCDE assignments. Next, we discuss the source of control.
Session 5	Hope and purposefulness	After a review of optimism, we explore the concept of hope and its importance. Instructors help participants to specify and set their goals and how to achieve them, identify obstacles in their path, and overcome them.
Session 6	Self-esteem, self-worth, and self-efficacy	We review the previous topic and then explain the benefits of self-esteem, self-worth, and self-efficacy. Instructors explain how to develop these feelings and positive coping strategies (e.g., problem-solving, social support, and acquiring new skills) by paying attention to participants’ strengths).
Session 7	Living a meaningful life	After reviewing the previous topic, instructors explain the benefits of a meaningful life and the importance of goals to achieve it. Participants practice how to find meaning in their lives through laughter, self-confidence, and healthy fitness habits.
Session 8	Closing session	After briefly summarizing all of the previous sessions and thanking participants for their contributions, instructors run posttests.